Shingles

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It often starts with burning, tingling or pain before a rash appears on one side of the body. 

If you’ve had chickenpox, you can develop shingles later in life because the virus stays inactive in your body and can reactivate years later. 

Early treatment can reduce symptoms and lower the risk of long-term complications. 

What is shingles? 

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral infection that affects the nerves and skin. 

It happens when the varicella-zoster virus (the virus that causes chickenpox) becomes active again. 

Shingles typically causes: 

• A painful, blistering rash 
• Nerve pain in a specific area of the body 
• Symptoms that appear on one side of the body 

What are the early signs of shingles? 

Shingles often begins before the rash appears. 

Early symptoms of shingles include: 

• Tingling or burning sensation 
• Itching or sensitivity in one area 
• Sharp or shooting pain 

These symptoms are usually followed by a rash within 1 to 5 days. 

What does the shingles rash look like? 

The rash is one of the most recognizable signs of shingles. 

Common features include: 

• A band or patch on one side of the body 
• Red bumps that turn into fluid-filled blisters 
• Blisters that break open, ooze and then crust over 

The rash is most often found on: 

• One side of the torso 
• The face or neck 

The rash usually heals within 2 to 4 weeks. 

Other symptoms of shingles 

In addition to the rash, some people may experience: 

• Fever 
• Chills 
• Headache 
• Fatigue 
• Upset stomach 

These symptoms are less common but can occur. 

How long does shingles last? 

Shingles typically follows this timeline: 

• Early symptoms (pain, tingling): 1 to 5 days 
• Rash and blisters: 7 to 10 days 
• Healing and scabbing: 2 to 4 weeks 

Some people develop long-term nerve pain after the rash heals. 

Who is at risk for shingles? 

About 1 in 3 people in the U.S. will develop shingles at some point. 

Your risk is higher if you: 

• Are over age 50 
• Have a weakened immune system 
• Have cancer or HIV 
• Are receiving chemotherapy or radiation 
• Take medications that suppress the immune system 
• Experience high levels of stress 

Is shingles contagious? 

You cannot catch shingles from another person. 

However, the virus can spread and cause chickenpox in someone who has never had it or has not been vaccinated. 

The virus spreads through contact with fluid from shingles blisters. 

You are contagious: 

• After the rash appears 
• Until the blisters have crusted over 

What can be mistaken for shingles? 

Shingles can look like other skin conditions, including: 

• Eczema 
• Psoriasis 
• Contact dermatitis (poison ivy, allergic rash) 
• Ringworm 
• Viral rashes 

A provider can help confirm the diagnosis. 

Can shingles be dangerous? 

Shingles is usually not life-threatening, but it can cause complications. 

Possible complications include: 

• Postherpetic neuralgia (long-term nerve pain) 
• Vision loss if the eye is affected 
• Hearing or balance problems (Ramsay Hunt syndrome) 
• Rare complications such as pneumonia or brain inflammation 

How is shingles treated? 

Early treatment is important. 

Your provider may prescribe antiviral medications, such as: 

• Acyclovir 
• Valacyclovir 
• Famciclovir 

These medications work best when started early and can: 

• Shorten the illness 
• Reduce severity 
• Lower the risk of complications 

At-home symptom relief may include: 

• Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) 
• Cool compresses 
• Calamine lotion or oatmeal baths 

Antibiotics are not used unless a secondary infection develops. 

How can you prevent shingles? 

The best way to prevent shingles is vaccination. 

The Shingrix vaccine is recommended for: 

• Adults age 50 and older 
• Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems 

It helps prevent shingles and reduces the risk of long-term nerve pain. 

Care you can trust 

At Banner Health, our providers can diagnose shingles quickly and start treatment to help reduce pain and complications. 

If you notice early symptoms or a new rash, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment or visit urgent care for evaluation. 

Frequently asked questions about shingles 

Can you get shingles more than once? 

Yes, although it is not common. 

Is shingles the same as herpes? 

Shingles is caused by a herpes virus (varicella-zoster), but it is not the same as herpes simplex. 

How painful is shingles? 

Pain can range from mild to severe and may continue after the rash heals. 

Should you cover shingles rash? 

Yes. Keeping the rash covered can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus. 

Bottom line 

Shingles is a common viral infection that causes a painful rash and nerve symptoms. Recognizing early signs and starting treatment quickly can help reduce symptoms and prevent long-term complications.